Cornfield House

At the time of the inspection the service supported one person with a learning disability, but people's main need was mental health. We assessed the care provision under Right Support, Right Care, Right Culture, as it is registered as a specialist service for this population group.

Right Support: Cornfield House is registered for 19 people which is larger than recommended, however the service was run in a way that met people's needs and our guidance. The model of care and environment maximised people's choice, control and independence. There were separate communal areas and outside space that supported choice for people and provided space to spend time as they wanted. For example, quiet time away from other people.

Staff supported people to do as much as possible for themselves and to build their self-confidence. Promotion of independence was seen as important for everyone within individual abilities. One person has been supported to become independent enough to move to a flat. They were looking forward to their move. People were supported to be busy and to have fulfilling lives that included life activities and social events. Two people had been supported to take their first holiday abroad.

People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible and in their best interests; the policies and systems in the service supported this practice.

People were supported to ensure they received their medicines in line with prescription guidelines. People's health needs were monitored, and they were supported to access to health care when needed.

Right Care: People received kind and compassionate care. Their privacy and dignity was respected. A visiting professional described how staff ensured they saw people privately. A relative described how staff had supported a person to make a will with their solicitor in the service.

Staff knew people well and responded to their individual needs. Each person had a key worker who had positive relationships with them. They worked as advocates, for example staff supported 1 person to see their solicitor privately in the home. A relative told us, "Staff are always there to support them." Choices were provided to people in relation to how they spent their time and how they wanted to be supported.

Staff were aware of their responsibility to protect people from potential abuse and concerns were reported and dealt with in line with good practice and local guidelines. Staff understood people's mental health needs and how best to support people to maintain their health.

Right Culture: The registered manager was providing effective hands-on leadership. Staff felt part of a team and people felt comfortable to approach staff, and the provider.

The registered manager worked hard at promoting a positive and inclusive environment where people and staff were valued and respected. Staff spoke positively about the registered manager and their 'hands on approach'. People were comfortable with staff and the registered manager and sought them out for company and conversation.

Staff spoke positively about people's achievements and encouraged them to have full and varied lives, that they were in control of. A staff member said, "We never forget that this is their home." A relative told us, "I know they are very happy at the home. They always ask when they are going home. That gives me great peace of mind."